Prior to the invention of automotive GPS units, traveling to unknown areas had to be done through reading a map and/or asking for directions. Both methods had problems. For instance, how can one effectively read a map while driving? Map-reading is only best if there is another passenger in the car, which isn’t always possible. Asking for directions can also be annoying, at least if the person giving the directions does so in a manner that is not as clear.
Fortunately, with the emergence of automotive GPS units the process of map-reading and getting directions has never been easier as each can be done either through voice activation, touching the screen, pushing buttons or a combination. Maps pinpointing the exact location pop right up on the screen, while directions can be given through a computer-generated voice. Nothing could be easier or better. The only issue is deciding which automotive GPS unit should be purchased. This article will serve as a guide telling consumers what they should be on the lookout for when choosing automotive GPS units.
The first area of consideration when buying automotive GPS units is seeing how accurate the device is. One way to determine this is by how many channels the GPS unit has. This is because more channels means the unit will be able to communicate with a larger number of satellites, resulting in more coverage. Another way to determine the accuracy of most automotive GPS units is through how its antenna is designed. Make sure the antenna is placed in an area of the unit where it will be able to stand freely.
The next thing to think about when looking at automotive GPS units is size. There are some automotive GPS units that will not be portable. Onstar, which has to be installed in one’s car, is an example of an automotive GPS unit that can not be moved from car-to-car. Many other automotive GPS units vary in portability.
Thirdly, perspective buyers of automotive GPS units should take notice of a unit’s interface. More expensive automotive GPS units will contain voice-activation and/or touch-screens, while cheaper ones can only be used through a series of buttons. If another person is in the car, using buttons is not as bad, but if only the driver can use the unit, it is important that it be as hands-free as possible. It is also important to try to get an automotive GPS unit that has the capability to give directions through a computer-generated voice. Doing so is another way to ensure that the driver of the car keeps their eyes on the road and nowhere else.
The software that the automotive automotive GPS unit uses is also critical. Most top of the line units have very good mapping software included with the unit. However, as time passes the mapping software becomes out of date. You should make sure that you automotive GPS units software is updated at least once every 6 months. Frequently there is cost for this service but if you live in fast growing urban environment then it is a good investment. Your automotive GPS unit is only as good as its operating and mapping software.
When looking at automotive GPS units one should consider: ease of use, accuracy, size and interface. Keeping these elements in mind ensures that a buyer obtains an automotive GPS unit that is reliable and will best assist them when they are on the road.
By: Jim Kesel
Posts Tagged ‘Invention’
GPS Ratings – Key to Finding the Best System
December 3rd, 2009
GPS technology, while a wonderful invention, does not come cheap, at least depending on what unit is bought. Specialized GPS systems can be close to $10,000, while those designed for general consumer use can be hundreds. Even simple GPS tracking systems used for just exercise purposes can cost over $100. This is why it is important to find out which GPS system is the best before actually making a purchase. One can do this by reviewing and evaluating GPS ratings.
Online stores are the first type of sites that can offer GPS ratings and reviews. These ratings are usually given by other people who have purchased the product. They are given a chance to vote on how well the product performed, and then are allowed to leave a comment. The potential buyer sees how many ‘stars’ a product received along with the evaluation of other buyers. Ideally the advantage of using ratings through this method is that buyers have no ulterior motive when they rate the product they purchased. However it is obvious that some ratings are either not from customers or from people who really do not own or use the product. One must take the time to read between the lines when a review is either too good or too poor. Other sites including those from the manufacture or distributors are design to help you purchase their products. Obviously they lack objectivity which makes their ratings suspect.
Another source of good GPS ratings is found on the many online comparison sites. These sites contain GPS product reviews and comparisons written by professionals. They may or may not include comments from regular buyers. When it comes to buying, online comparison sites usually do not offer products for sale directly from their URL. Most of them will allow one to purchase through affiliate links, which are posted on the site. These affiliate links direct the visitor to the appropriate online store.
If you search the internet you will sometimes find written opinions and reviews from customers who really like the product or really hate it. Again GPS ratings from this source must be tempered with caution. Some authors have taken the time to create these ratings because they are trying to get visitors to buy from their affiliate links. Blogs that discuss GPS system technology are another source of ratings that can be used to compare GPS products. Others give ratings simply out of love of product function and design wanting to make sure potential customers get the best value for their money. Although these sites may not contain as much information as the more professional comparison sites, they may be a bit less overwhelming if one is trying to decide among just a couple of GPS brands.
If you plan on purchasing a GPS receiver, it would be wise to first visit a number of websites containing credible GPS ratings. These can be from online stores, comparison sites or third-party sites created by individuals. Through these ratings one can get an idea of how effective and reliable a GPS unit is without risking an investment.
By: Jim Kesel
